Method and apparatus for insertion of joint former material in uncured concrete



L. WORSON MATERIAL IN UNCURED CONCRETE 4 Sheets-Sheet 1 INVENTOR.

AT TO R NEYS Dec. 17,v 1968 7 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTION OF JOINT FORMER Filed June' 26, 1967 FIG.7,

Dec. 17, woR soN METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTION OF JOINT FORMER MATERIAL IN UNCURED CONCRETE 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed June 26, 1967 Hull M FIG INVENTOR. LEE WORSON ATTORNEYS L. WORSON 3,416,415 3 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTION OF JOINT FORMER MATERIAL IN UNCURED CONCRETE 4 Sheets-Sheet Filed June 26. 1967 FIG.8

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INVENTOR.

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LEE woRsoN flrraz/virs' L. WORSON 3,416,415 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTION OF JOINT FORMER Dec. 17, 1968 MATERIAL IN UNCURED CONCRETE Filed June 26, 1967 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 FIG.|5

INVENTOR. Waeso/v firroe/ve'ns' E E L United States Patent ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE A method and apparatus operative to continuously insert or embed in uncured concrete an elongated strip of joint former material and characterized by progressive engagement of vertically and transversely oriented portions of such material by rotating wheel means to thereby align and thrust downwardly such material in the uncured concrete.

Cross reference to related applications This application is a continuation-in-part of my abandoned co-pending patent application Ser. No. 533,960, filed Mar. 14, 1966, and entitled Method and Apparatus For Forming Joints In Concrete, which in turn is a continuation-in-part of my co-pending patent application Ser. No. 258,003, filed Dec. 8, 1961, now Patent No. 3,270,636 and also entitled Method and Apparatus For Forming Joints In Concrete.

Background of the invention Field of the invention.The present invention relates to a method of forming joints in concrete and to the apparatus for forming such joints, but more particularly it pertains to methods and apparatus for embedding flexible sealing and expansible joint forming means in uncured concrete.

Description of the prior art.In the construction of large concrete surfaces, as for instance roadways, airport runways and the like, it is necessary to provide joints in the concrete for systematic control of expansion and contraction of the concrete with changes in temperature. If provision is not made for such systematic control, random cracks will occur throughout the entire surface of the concrete during its final curing. Often such non-uniform cracks become enlarged due to wear and further expansion and contraction of the concrete and result in structural failure of a large section of the concrete.

In addition to controlling the occurrence of cracks in the concrete, it is necessary that sealing means be provided in the resulting joints or cracks to prevent moisture from washing away the bed beneath the road and to prevent the creation of excessive pressures within the concrete due to changes in temperature of such moisture. Accordingly, as set forth in my United States Letters Patent No. 3,023,681, issued Mar. 6, 1962, for Combined Weakened Plane Joint Former and Water Stop, elongated flexible sealing and joint forming strips are embedded in the concrete before it is cured. However, due to the necessary flexibility of such a strip, it is difiicult to properly introduce and orient the strip in the concrete in a position in which the upper vertical portion of the strip is located so as to properly form and accurately locate the ensuing crack or joint, and in which the horizontal portion of the strip is located so as to be able to block or stop passage of water downwardly past the strip. The thickness or heavy consistency of the concrete also makes such introduction and orientation difficult. The relatively Patented Dec. 17, 1968 'ice large rocks or stones in the gravel which forms a part of the concrete get in the way of the strip, and the heavy consistency of the concrete impedes forward passage of the joint material inserting apparatus.

Prior art joint material inserting apparatus of the "type adapted to continuously insert the material, either longitudinally from behind a conventional continuous paving machine, or transversely from a trolley or car moving above the expanse of uncured concrete, generally employs an inserting tube. The tube is suitably carried by associated support apparatus for projection beneath the surface of the concrete, and is characterized by a hollow interior or passage having a cross-section approximating that of the joint former material. In effect, the material is extruded from the tube as the associated support appanatus moves or is transported over the freshly laid concrete. This type of apparatus works quite well in certain situations, but in particular applications it is not entirely satisfactory. The apparatus is not adapted to vary the drag of the tube on the joint material as it is exuded, and on transition from a flat expanse of concrete to a sloping expanse, for example, the tube apparatus tends to pull the already inserted material out of the concrete in the transition zone as the tube apparatus moves past the zone.

Summary Consequently it is an object of this invention to provide a method and apparatus for embedding elongated flexible joint forming material in uncured concrete through progressive engagement of the material by rotating wheel means. Since the rate of rotation of the wheel means can be varied, the material can be inserted at a rate greater than, the same as, or less than the rate of travel of the apparatus across the concrete, so that the tension in the inserted material will be as required.

Another object of this invention is to provide a method and apparatus as characterized above in which the wheel means simultaneously provides a path through the aggregate of the concrete, and forcibly inserts the joint forming material into the concrete along such predetermined path.

Another object of this invention is to provide a method and apparatus for inserting a flexible joint former strip in uncured concrete by application of localized downward pressure upon a transverse section of the strip, and progressively along the length of the strip, to embed the strip at the proper depth in the concrete, and also by stabilizing engagement of a vertical section of the strip to properly orient the strip to achieve its dual function of forming a joint and sealing the joint from water passage past the strip.

Another object of this invention is to provide apparatus as characterized above which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture and rugged and dependable in operation.

The novel features of which I consider characteristic of my invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The method and apparatus, both as to organization and mode of operation, and additional objects and advantages thereof, will best be understood from the following description of specific embodiments, when read in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of apparatus according to the present invention shown in operating position relative to a large area of concrete;

FIGURE 2 is a front elevational view of the apparatus of FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 3 is a sectional view taken substantially along line 33 of FIGURE 2 of the drawings;

FIGURE 4 is a fragmentary sectional view through the insertion tool of the apparatus of FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 5 is a fragmentary sectional view similar to FIGURE 4 showing a combined waterstop and weakened plane joint former inserted into the concrete;

FIGURE 6 is a fragmentary sectional view taken substantially along line 66 of FIGURE 3 of the drawings;

FIGURE 7 is a fragmentary sectional view of a combined waterstop and weakened plane joint former that has been embedded in concrete by means of the method and apparatus of the present invention;

FIGURE 8 is a side elevational view, similar to FIG- URE 3, but illustrating another form of apparatus for continuously inserting a joint former into fresh concrete or like material;

FIGURE 9 is a view taken along line 99 of FIG- URE 8;

FIGURE 10 is an enlarged view taken along line 1010 of FIGURE 8;

FIGURE 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the portion indicated by the number 11 in FIGURE 10;

FIGURE 12 is an enlarged view taken along the line 1212 of FIGURE 10;

FIGURE 13 is .a diagrammatic view of the inserting wheel of FIGURE 8 and illustrating the portion of its rotation during which the gripping forces upon the joint former are developed; and

FIGURES 14 through 16 are partial transverse crosssectional views of three types of inserting wheels, and the manner of their cooperation with joint former material during an insertion operation.

Like reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

Referring to FIGURE 1 of the drawings, the embodiment chosen for illustration of the present invention is shown in operating position immediately above a section of uncured concrete 10. Such concrete may be part of a roadway, airport runway, flood control or irrigation canal, or substantially any other structure having large areas of concrete.

In building the forms for receiving and defining the shape of the concrete, it may be desirable to employ means such as side form rails 12 and 14 which can also serve as a track along which the subject apparatus can be propelled as will hereinafter be explained. However, the particular means of locomotion for the subject apparatus does not form a limiting part of this invention, it merely being necessary that any desired means for moving the apparatus relative to the concrete, as will hereinafter appear in detail, be provided for successful practice of this invention.

With the forms for the concrete suitably positioned, the concrete 10 can be poured in any desired manner. Before the concrete has cured, the subject apparatus identified generally with the numeral 16 should be positioned for relative movement with respect to the longitudinal strip of freshly-poured concrete.

Apparatus 16 is formed of various types of steel structural members. The body or frame thereof includes a base or platform 18 which is composed of a pair of longitudinally extending box or U-shaped end members 20 and 22 which are joined together by a pair of elongated inverted U-shaped channel members 24 and 26. As will hereinafter become more readily apparent, the subject apparatus must be extremely rugged and dependable in operation thus necessitating the use of relatively strong steel members welded into a unitary structure. At either end of platform 18 is positioned a vertical support 28 and 30 respectively, each of which may take any desired form in accordance with the support function to be performed. Attached to the upper end portions of support members 28 and 30 is a box section channel member 32 which is positioned transversely on apparatus 16.

To support the entire apparatus while permitting movement thereof, there are provided suitable wheels, as shown at 34 and 36, attached to the box members 20 and 22 in any appropriate manner. Any desired number of wheels may be employed, to adequately support the apparatus. As shown most clearly in FIGURES 1 and 2, the wheels shown in the disclosed embodiment are formed to straddle the C-shaped rails 12 and 14 to insure that the apparatus remains in the proper position with respect to the concrete 10.

Any suitable means, as for instance motors 38 and 40', may be employed for rotating wheels 34 and 36 respectively, there being suitable chain or belt drive means for transmitting power therebetween. The energy for operating motors 38 and 40 may be supplied from any suitable source as for instance a gasoline engine-driven generator carried on the apparatus.

An insertion tool identified generally with the numeral 42 is mounted on the apparatus laterally or transversely of the direction of the latter. Tool 42 is formed with a shaft 44 the opposite ends of which are rotatably mounted in suitable brackets or bearing members 46 and 48, which are slidable vertically in the support members 28 and 30 respectively. Due to this arrangement, support members 28 and 30 should be formed with channels for receiving the bearing members and permitting vertical movement thereof while preventing rotation or horizontal relative movement.

The shaft 44 carries a predetermined number of transverse vertical arm members as at 50 and a predetermined number of angularly disposed structural members as at 52. The resulting structure is substantially coplanar, parallel to the axis of rotation of shaft 44. Along the opposite side edges of insertion tool 42 are a pair of tool members 54 .and 56, shown most clearly in FIGURES 4 and 5 of the drawings.

Tool member 54 extends the entire length of insertion tool 42 and is disposed transversely of the direction of movement of the apparatus 16. As shown most clearly in FIGURES 4 and 5 of the drawings, tool member 54 does not have any moving parts and may, if desired, be formed with a hollow as shown at 54a. For purposes to be hereinafter explained in detail, tool member 54 is preferably provided with an elongated tip or edge as at 54b.

Insertion tool 56 is formed with an abutment member 56a which extends the entire length of tool 42 for receiving an elongated combined waterstop and joint forming strip 58 which is characterized by oppositely disposed and substantially horizontally oriented lateral portions which present one or more transverse sections for engagement by the tool 56, or by the analogous components of other insertion apparatus described herein. The strip 58 also includes an upwardly extending and substantially vertically oriented portion intermediate the lateral portions and presenting a vertical section for engagement by the insertion apparatus, as will be seen. To facilitate this, abutment member 56a is shaped throughout its length with a surface 56b which corresponds to one side of strip 58.

A latching member 560 is pivotally fixed to abutment member 56a by means of spaced hinges as shown at 60 and is formed with a surface 56d which conforms to the other side of the strip 58. A plurality of spaced lugs 62 are fastened to latching member 56c. Each lug 62 is connected to one end of an actuating lever 64, the opposite end of which is fastened to a bell crank 66 firmly fastened to a rotatable rod 68. Rod 68 as shown most clearly in FIGURES 2, 4 and 5, is mounted within suitable openings in the transverse structural members 50 of insertion tool 42. For rotation of rod 68, there is provided one or more hydraulic operating cylinders 70 secured to the transverse structural members 50. Each hydraulic cylinder 70 is provided with a piston (not shown) and piston rod 72 which is rotatably connected to a pivot arm 74. Each arm 74 is non-rotatably fastened to rod 68, to transmit the operation of the respective cylinder 70 to rod 68.

At the opposite ends of tool 42 there is provided hydraulic rocking cylinders 76 and 78. Such cylinders are firmly anchored to transverse support member 32 and are provided with piston rods which are connected to the respective bearing members 46 and 48. As W111 be readily apparent to those persons skilled in the art, thls arrangement enables either or both of the opposite ends of shaft 44 to be moved in a vertical direction in accordance with the particular function to be performed as W111 hereinafter be explained in detail.

Mounted on support member 32 is a spool or drum 80 on which is wound a suitable length of strip material 58 for providing the transverse joints in the concrete 10. Such spool 80 is rotatably supported by means of bracket members 82 and 84 carrying a shaft 86.

A similar spool 88 is mounted on the rear of the apparatus for supplying strip material 59 identlcal to the strip material 58 to be positioned longitudinally 1n the concrete 10. Spool 88 is rotatably mounted by means of bracket members 90 and 92 which are fastened to 1nverted channel member 24 and which carry a shaft 94.

A rotatable insertion wheel 96 carried by a lever mechanism 98 projects from the rear of the apparatus. Lever mechanism 98 is pivotally fastened relative to the bracket members which support spool 88. A hydraulic actuating cylinder 100 is interposed between channel member 24 and lever mechanism 98 for controlling the position of wheel 96 with respect to the section of concrete 10.

Mounted on the front of the apparatus is path forming means comprising an adjustable tool 102 which slrdably fits within a sleeve 102a welded to channel member 26. Any appropriate means may be employedfor permitting adjustment of the height of tool 102 relative to concrete 10, as for instance a shaft or thumb screw which can be inserted into suitable openings in tool 102 for engagement with the upper edge of sleeve 102a.

A control panel 104 for mounting suitable control levers as at 104a is fixed to the forward edge of member 32. An operator stands on the platform 18 as provided by channel member 26 for manipulation of the control members mounted on panel 104.

A source of power for operating the apparatus 1s mounted on platform 18 as shown at 106. Although such power source may take substantially any desired and appropriate form in accordance with the type of actuating devices employed in the apparatus, FIGURE 1 shows a gasoline engine drivingly connected to both a hydraulic pump and an electric generator. The hydraulic pump, of course, affords the necessary hydraulic pressure for operation of the various aforedescribed hydraulic cylinders, whereas the electric generator affords the electric power for operation of the drive motors 38 and 40.

The method of embedding the strips 58 and 59 in the concrete is substantially as follows:

By suitably controlling the energization of the electric motors connected to the drive wheels, the apparatus can be caused to move on rails 12 and 14 longitudinally of the concrete 10. As the apparatus moves, tool 102, which previously has been adjusted to the proper vertical position, forms a longitudinal path through the aggregate of the concrete 10. That is, due to the viscosity of the fine ingredients of the concrete, as for instance the cement, sand, water and the like, a path cannot be formed therein which will remain for any appreciable length of time. However, the larger and heavier ingredients of concrete, such as gravel, which is commonly termed aggregate, can be pushed to one side or the other as the desired path is being formed. As such, a path can be formed through the heavier materials to greatly facilitate the subsequent insertion of the joint forming means.

As the apparatus 16 continues to move, such motion causes the flexible strip 59 from spool 88 to be inserted longitudinally into the concrete 10. That is, such strip 59 is caused to unwind from the spool 88 and to pass under the insertion wheel 96. As shown in FIGURE 6 of the drawings, wheel 96 is formed with a suitably configured outer periphery for receiving the strip 59. Due

to this feature, the wheel 96 does not deform the strip 59 but rather applies pressure thereto at the predetermined strongest sections. The depth of insertion of the longitudinal strip 59 is determined by the operation of hydraulic cylinder 100, the latter being controlled by suitable control levers mounted on panel 104.

The insertion wheel 96 is aligned with the path forming tool 102 so that the strip 59 from spool 88 is inserted to the proper depth along the path formed thereby. Thus the strip material is inserted without engaging relatively hard immovable objects such as the aggregate of the concrete 10.

At predetermined intervals during the travel of apparatus 16 relative to concrete 10, the entire apparatus is brought to rest for purposes of inserting lateral strips 58. After the apparatus is stopped, the insertion tool 42 is rotated within bearing members 46 and 48 until the path forming tool member 54 is disposed downwardly. While in this position, the operator, by suitable manipulation of the appropriate controls on panel 104 causes the entire tool 42 to be moved downwardly so as to cause tool member 54 to provide a transverse path in the aggregate of the concrete 10. Such action of tool 42 can be accomplished 'by simultaneously actuating hydraulic cylinders 76 and 78 to cause the entire length of tool member 54 to be inserted instantaneously in the concrete. In the alternative, the hydraulic cylinders 76 and 78 may be operated separately so as to cause first one end of tool member 54 to be inserted into the concrete and thereafter the other end to be inserted. Ultimately, however, the entire tool member 54 is pressed downwardly into the concrete so as to form a predetermined transverse path through the aggregate thereof.

While the tool 42 is so positioned as shown in FIG- URE 4, the strip 58 from spool can be out to the proper length and positioned in the tool member 56. To accomplish this, tool member 56 is opened by suitable actuation of hydraulic cylinder 70. That is, such cylinder is suitably energized to cause latching member 560 to pivot in a clockwise direction as shown in FIGURE 4. The section of the strip 58 is then positioned in the abutment member 56a and the latching member 560 is returned to closed position. The latter operation, of course, is effected by suitable actuation of hydraulic cylinder 70 by the operator at control panel 104.

After the strip 58 is mounted in the insertion tool member 56, the entire insertion tool 42 is rotated within journal members 46 and 48 until the tool member 56 is disposed downwardly as shown in FIGURE 5 of the drawings.

Thereafter, the hydraulic cylinders 76 and 78 are alternately. actuated so as to cause the entire insertion tool 42 and the strip 58 attached thereto to rock end-for-end upon the pivots afforded by the connections between the tool extremities and the brackets 46 and 48, respectively, which slide vertically in the support members 28 and 30. As this action continues, the tool 42 is caused to progressively creep downwardly until the strip 58 is at the proper position within the concrete. The aforedescribed rocking and creeping action is necessary to prevent collapse and deformation of the strip 58. Such strip is generally made of plastic or other suitable elastomeric materials to insure that it will yieldably engage the sections of concrete to provide the necessary seal therebetween. Also, such end-for-end rocking motion causes the strip to knife its way through the concrete to further insure that said strip will maintain its intended size and shape. This action will be recognized by persons skilled in the art as being substantially identical with the action of insertion wheel 96 in progressively exerting pressure along the length of the longitudinal strip 58.

Due to the previously formed path through the aggregate of the concrete as formed by tool member 54, the flexible strip 58 is ultimately forcibly inserted into the concrete to the desired position. Then by suitable actuation of the appropriate control lever, the hydraulic cylinder releases the strip 58. In this regard, latching member 56c of tool 56 need not be actuated to its extreme open position but rather need only be moved a small distance to permit strip 58 to remain within the concrete 10 as tool member 56 is removed. After this has been accomplished, and the entire insertion tool 42 is in its retracted position the apparatus 16 is moved forward to continue laying the longitudinal strip 59 until the next position for a lateral strip 58 is reached.

It should be noted that under certain conditions it is desirable that the tool 56 be given a fore-and-aft rocking motion as it effects insertion of the lateral strip 58. This motion will help enlarge the strip-receiving groove formed in the uncured concrete 107. Thus, as indicated in FIGURE 5, a hydraulic cylinder is rernovably interposed between a fixed element 112 of the apparatus 16 and the upper portion of each of the arms 50. With continued reference to this figure, one end of the cylinder 110 is pivotally connected to the fixed element 112 while the piston rod 114 associated with cylinder 110 is detachably connected to the upper portion of arm 50 as by a removable pin 116. The cylinder 110 is operated in a conventional manner to effect reciprocation of piston rod 114. This serves to effect a fore-and-aft rocking of the insertion tool 56, as indicated by the directional arrows in FIGURE 5. Such fore-and-aft rocking may be independent of or concurrent with the end-for-end rocking of the entire insertion tool 42.

Although not mandatory for successful practice of the present invention, it may be found desirable to provide suitable notches or cutouts in the vertical webs of the strips 58 and 59 at their intersection.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 through 12, there is illustrated another form of insertion wheel 120, which is broadly similar to the wheel 96 previously described, but which is characterized by a more positive gripping of the strip material 58.

The wheel includes a pair of transversely spaced apart and generally vertically oriented circular disks 122. The disks 122 converge toward each other adjacent their bottoms so that the spacing between them gradually decreases in a downward direction. As best seen in FIGS. 10 and 13, the maximum spacing between the disks 122 occurs adjacent their upper portions, and the minimum spacing occurs adjacent their lower portions. As will be more particularly described hereinafter, the strip material 58 is brought into position between the lower portions of the disks 122, the engagement continuing through the arc of approximately 60 degrees which is indicated in dash-dot outline in FIG. 13. That is, initial engagement occurs at the radius 124 and continues through to the radius 126, at which point the strip material 58 is released. The disks 122 are closest to each other at a radius 128, which is approximately 30 degrees of arc upwardly from the bottom of the disks 122. At this radius 128 the strip material 58 is most firmly gripped by the disks 122.

The pairs of disks 122 are centrally bored for free rotation about a shaft 130 which is deformed so that its opposite extremities are axially offset, the longitudinal axes of the longitudinally offset extremities of the shaft 130 intersecting approximately midway between the adjacent opposed inner surfaces of the disks 122. With this arrangement, each disk 122 rotates in a plane which is slightly canted or inclined with respect to a vertical plane. Each disk is mounted to the annular flange of a hub 122 by a plurality of uniformly circumferentially spaced nut and bolt assemblies 134. Each hub 134 mounts the outer race of a ball bearing 136, the inner race of the bearing 136 being mounted to the shaft 130.

The ends of the the shaft 130 are resiliently mounted to a pair of horizontal arm extensions 138 which are spaced apart in confronting relation and constitute extensions of a pair of mounting arms 140. The resilient mounting at each end of the shaft 130 is provided by a rubber or elastomeric element 142 which is enclosed with- 8 in a mounting bracket 144 secured to the adjacent arm extension 138 by a plurality of suitable bolts 146.

Each rubber element 142 is centrally apertured to mount the outer race of a ball bearing 148, the inner race of the bearing being secured to the associated end of the shaft 130. This arrangement permits free rotation of the disks 122, and yet affords a resilient or cushioned mounting of the ends of the shaft 130 whereby the disks 122 may be vibrated, as will be more particularly described below.

A transverse strap or plate is welded to the lower edges of the arm extensions 138 and, as best illustrated in FIG. 12, mounts a pair of usual and conventional electrically operated vibrators 152, a vibrator 152 being secured to the underside of each extremity of the plate 150 adjacent one of the arm extensions 138. The forward extremities of a pair of vibrator arms 154 are welded or otherwise rigidly secured to the bases of the vibrators 152, respectively, and the rearward extremity of each arm 154 includes an arcuate cavity which fits and receives the curved surface of the shaft 130. A complemental cavity is formed in each of a pair of caps 156 located on the opposite side of the shaft 130, the caps 156 being secured tot he arm 154 by threaded bolts 158. This securely clamps the arms 154 to the shaft 130 on opposite sides of the disks 122 whereby the disks 122 are vibrated upon operation of the vibrators 152.

Immediately above the plate 150, a transverse strap or plate 160 is welded to the upper edges of the adjacent arm extensions 138, and monuts a usual and conventional hydraulically operated motor 162. The motor output shaft extends from the opposite sides of the motor 162 and each mounts a drive sprocket 163 about which a pair of drive chains 164 are trained.

The drive chains 164 extend rearwardly and are trained about driven sprocket 166 which are secured to the disks 132, respectively. More particularly, each drive sprocket 166 abuts against the outer surface of the annular flange of the associated hub 132 and is secured in this position by the nut and bolt assemblies 134.

Upon operation of the motor 162, the disks 122 are rotated in a clock-wise direction, as viewed in FIGS. 8 and 13. Fluid under pressure required for the operation of the motor 162 is provided by any usual and conventional hydraulic apparatus carried by the apparatus 16, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The vibrators 152 are energized from any suitable source, such as a motor-generator carried by the apparatus 16.

The rearwardly projecting ends of the arm extensions 138 are secured together by an end plate 168, while the opposite extremities of the arm extensions 138 diverge outwardly and then extend forwardly, that is, in the direction of travel of the apparatus 16, to define the remainder of the mounting arms 140. The forward ends of the arms 140 are pivotally mounted to the apparatus 16 by a shaft 170 whose ends are disposed through the arms and through a pair of mounting brackets 172 which are rigidly secured to the apparatus 16. The shaft 170 is secured in position by a pair of nuts 174 which are mounted upon the threaded ends of the shaft 170.

The disks 122 are pivotable about the axis of the shaft 170 by operation of a pair of double acting hydraulic cylinder 176. The cylinders 176 are pivotally mounted at their forward ends to a pair of brackets 178, respectively, which are secured to the apparatus 16, and are pivotally mounted at their piston rod ends to a transverse shaft 180. The shaft 180 extends between the arms 140 and is secured thereto by a pair of nuts 182 mounted upon the threaded ends of the shaft 180.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, extension and retraction of the piston rods of the cylinders 176 is effected by application of hydraulic fluid to the cylinders 176, under the control of usual and conventional valves (not shown), to thereby raise and lower the disks 122 as desired.

The spacing between the peripheries of the disks 122 at the point indicated by the radius line 124 in FIG. 13 is suflicient to permit the strip material 58 to pass between the disks 122. Thereafter, as the disks 122 are rotated in a counterclockwise direction, the peripheries of the disks squeeze the upper vertical extension of the strip material 58 to firmly carry it rearwardly and place it within the fresh concrete 10. These squeezing of the strip material 58 is therefore positive in nature, which is particularly important in those situations where the strip material is being laid in a transverse joint having both a horizontal portion and an upwardly sloping portion. An example of such a joint is the transverse joint in the horizontal floor and sloping side wall of an irrigation canal. In the absence of positive feeding, it will be seen that during the laying of the strip material 58 in the sloping portion of the concrete, the strip material already laid in the horizontal portion of the concrete tends to be pulled out of its embedded position. However, such pulling out of the strip material is prevented by the positive feeding action of the apparatus illustrated in FIGURE 8.

The strip material is fed to the disks 122 from a usual supply or feed drum (not shown), extending downwardly as illustrated. The strip material is guided into position for engagement by the disks 122 by a guide element 184 which is held in position adjacent the disks 122 by a loop or strap 186 secured at its opposite ends to the arm extensions 138. The guide 184 is preferably made up of metal and formed with an internal cross-section approximating the cross-section of the strip material 58 so that the strip material 57 is easily slidable through the guide 184 and is properly oriented for engagement by the disks 122 when the material leaves the guide immediately adjacent the disks 122. The firm and positive engagement by the disks 122, accompanied by the vibration previously men-' tioned, is then effective to embed the strip material with good compaction of the fresh concrete about the strip material. The depth of embedment is controlled by actuation of the cylinders 176.

Referring now to FIGS. 14 through 16, there are illustrated three methods and apparatuses for inserting an elongated fiexible joint forming material or strip in uncured concrete, either transversely or longitudinally, the surface of the concrete being indicated generally by the numeral 10.

The strip 58a is substantially similar to the strip 58 except that the proportions of the parts are slightly different, and the configuration of the horizontal portions is slightly different. These slight differences between the strips 58 and 58a are not important to the present invention, the strip 58 being illustrated merely to show a different embodiment of joint former strip material which is in present use.

The showing in FIG. 14 is similar to that of FIG. 6, in that the wheel 96 is employed to hold and embed the strip. Likewise, the showing in FIG. 15 is similar to that of FIG. 11 in that the wheel means or pair of disks 122 are employed to hold and embed the strip. Both showings are included in side-by-side relation to emphasize the unique function provided by the wheel 96 and the disks 122.

More particularly, the edge periphery of the wheel 96 and the disks 122, designated at 188, is seen to engage a pair of horizontal or transverse sections or portions 190 of the strip 5811 located on either side of the upper vertical web or portion 192 of the strip 58a. The transverse sections 190 are defined by the upper surfaces of the substantially horizontal, transversely oriented pair of opposed lateral webs or portions of the strip 58a, while the sides of the vertically oriented upper web or portion of the strip 58a define a pair of vertical portions or sections 194.

The sections 194 are engageable by the radially directed inner surfaces of the peripheral groove or joint strip receiving hollow in the wheel 96. The sections 194 are similarly engageable by the inner, confronting surfaces of the disks 122 adjacent the peripheries thereof.

With the arrangement just described, the engagement of the transverse sections enables the wheel 96or the disks 122, as the case may be, to press. down upon the strip 58a and embed it in the uncured concrete. Where the transverse sections are located depends upon the nature of the joint strip, the transverse section only being required to be one which can be engaged and pressed downwardly to embed the joint strip. FIG. 16 illustrates a different joint strip 58b which is characterized by a pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending, and substantially vertically oriented webs or portions, instead of the single web or portion of the strip 58a.

Although the strip 58b could be pressed downwardly and embedded by a properly proportioned wheel 96 or pair of disks 122 adapted to straddle the pair of upwardly extending vertical portions, the transverse section 196 defined between and at the base of the vertical portions can also be utilized for depressing the strip 58b into the concrete. In this case a wheel 96a is utilized which projects between the joint strip vertical portions, with its opposite faces in engagement with the confronting vertical surfaces or surfaces 198 thereof, and its periphery in engagement with the transverse section 196.

From the foregoing it will be apparent that the number and location of transverse sections engaged by the rotating wheel means can be varied to suit the requirements of the job and the particular joint strip.

In this regard, the engagement of the vertical sections of the joint strip by the corresponding or complemental surfaces of the rotating wheel means can be similarly varied to suit the requirements of the moment. Such engagement between the vertical sections 190 and the previously described complemental portions of the wheel 96 or the disks 122 is a stabilizing engagement which constrains the strip S8a against lateral tipping. Consequently, the vertical and horizontal portions of the strip 58a will be able to perform its joint forming and water stop functions, respectively.

In similar fashion, the engagement of the wheel 96a with the vertical sections 198 of the strip 58b in FIG. 16 is a stabilizing engagement, constraining the strip 58b against lateral tipping and disorientation.

Complmentalwheel means and joint strips of many different configurations will occur to those skilled in the art, the invention, however, being directed to a method and apparatus achieving strip embedment by engagement of wheel means with one or more strip sections which are preferably horizontally or transversely oriented, the wheel means preferably also engaging a substantially vertical section to preserve lateral stability during embedment. However, such lateral stability could be provided by the insertion apparatus independently of the strip wheel means, if desired. Thus, the invention provides a novel method and apparatus for inserting elongated flexible joint forming material into uncured concrete by progressive engagement of the material by rotating wheel means. This provides a means for thrusting the material downwardly and, in the embodiments described, for also simultaneously aligning and orienting the material to properly perform its intended functions. The embodiments are adapted to insert either longitudinal or transverse joint material, either behind a paving machine or from a rig movable over an expanse of uncured concrete, and in conjunction witheither a towed or a self-propelled support structure.

Various modifications and changes may be made with regard to the foregoing detailed description without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the following claims.

I claim:

1. A method of continuously inserting in uncured concrete an elongated strip of joint former material characterized by oppositely disposed lateral portions and an upwardly extending substantially vertical portion, wherein said material includes a substantially horizontally oriented surface accessible from above said material and a substantially vertically oriented surface accessible from a side of said material, said method comprising the steps of:

progressively engaging and pressing downwardly upon said horizontally oriented surface along successive sections of the length of said strip to progressively insert said strip in said concrete; and

simultaneously progressively engaging and constraining said vertically oriented surface against lateral movement along the length of said strip to properly orient and stabilize the inserted said strip.

2. The method according to claim 1 and including the step of varying the rate of progressive engagement of said horizontally and vertically oriented surfaces relative to the rate of embedment of said strip in said concrete.

3. Apparatus for continuously inserting in uncured concrete an elongated strip of joint former material characterized by oppositely disposed lateral portions and an upwardly extending vertical portion, wherein said material includes a substantially horizontally oriented surface accessible from above said material and a substantially vertically oriented surface accessible from a side of said material, said apparatus comprising:

a frame for carrying a supply of said joint former material;

embedding means on said frame comprising rotatable wheel means having an outer peripheral edge portion to engage said substantially horizontally oriented surface of said joint former material and having a radially oriented face portion adapted to simultaneously engage said vertically oriented surface of said joint former material whereby said joint former material is pressed by said wheel means downwardly into said uncured concrete and said vertical portion is properly oriented for proper orientation of said joint former material in said uncured concrete;

and means projecting said wheel means for rotation partially beneath the surface of said uncured concrete to form a path through said uncured concrete and simultaneously progressively embed said joint former material in said uncured concrete along said path.

4. Apparatus according to claim 3 and including vibration means for vibrating said wheel means.

5. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the opposite sides of said vertical portion of said joint former material each defines a separate said substantially vertically oriented surface, and the upper surfaces of said horizontal portions of said joint former material each defines a separate said substantially horizontally oriented surface, and wherein said wheel means comprises a wheel having a groove in its periphery adapted to complementally re ceive said vertical portion of said joint former material with the radially directed walls defining said groove engaging both said vertically oriented surfaces, and with the portions of said periphery on opposite sides of said groove engaging both said horizontally oriented surfaces.

6. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the opposite sides of said vertical portion of said joint former material each defines a separate said substantially vertically oriented surface and the upper surfaces of said horizontal portions of said joint former material each defines a separate said substantially horizontally oriented surface, and wherein said wheel means comprises a pair of disks adapted to receive said vertical portion of said joint former material therebetween with confronting portions of the disk surfaces engaging both said vertically oriented surfaces, and with the edge peripheries of said disks engaging said horizontally oriented surfaces, respectively.

7. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said joint former material includes a pair of said vertical portions spaced apart to define a groove whose confronting walls define a pair of said substantially vertically oriented surfaces, and wherein the base of said groove defines said substantially horizontally oriented surface, and wherein said wheel means comprises a wheel adapted to project into said groove with its opposite faces engaging said vertically oriented surfaces, and with its edge periphery engaging said horizontally oriented surface.

8. Apparatus for embedding elongated joint forming means in uncured concrete, wherein said means includes oppositely disposed lateral portions and an upwardly extending vertical portion, said apparatus comprising:

a frame for carrying a supply of said joint forming means;

embedding means on said frame comprising rotatable disk means having an outer periphery adapted to engage the upper surfaces of said lateral portions of said joint forming means, with said vertical portion extending radially inwardly of said outer periphery, whereby said lateral portions are pressed by said disk means downwardly into said uncured concrete and said vertical portion is properly oriented for proper orientation of said joint forming means in said uncured concrete;

and means projecting said disk means for rotation partially beneath the surface of said uncured concrete to form a path through said uncured concrete and simultaneously progressively embed said joint forming means in said uncured concrete along said path.

9. Apparatus according to claim 8 and including vibration means for vibrating said disk means.

10. Apparatus according to claim 8 and including an elongated guide carried by said frame and having an internal passage characterized by a cross-section approximating the crosssection of said joint forming means and slidably receiving said joint forming means, said guide terminating immediately adjacent said disk means.

11. Apparatus for embedding elongated joint forming means in uncured concrete, wherein said means includes oppositely disposed lateral portions and an upwardly extending vertical portion, said apparatus comprising:

a frame for carrying a supply of said joint forming means;

embedding means on said frame comprising a pair of disks adapted to roll through said concrete;

means carried by said frame and mounting said disks for rotation about axes oppositely inclined relative to a horizontal axis and orienting the inner surfaces of said disks in downwardly convergent relation to locate the lower peripheries thereof in closer proximity than the upper peripheries thereof, the proximity of said lower peripheries adapting said disks for engaging the upper surfaces of said lateral portions and the adjacent side portions of said vertical portion of said joint forming means, with said vertical portion extending radially inwardly of and between said disks, thereby to carry said joint forming means and forcibly press said lateral portions thereof downwardly into proper orientation in said concrete and thereafter release said joint forming means upon rotation of said disks;

and means coupled to said disks and operative for rotating said disks.

12. Apparatus according to claim 11 and including means for vibrating said disks.

13. Apparatus according to claim 11 and including means for raising and lowering said disks.

14. Apparatus according to claim 11 wherein said means carried by said frame for mounting said disks includes a mounting shaft having opposite, axially offset extremities, each of which rotatably mounts one of said disks.

References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,982,387 11/1934 Heltzel 9451 X 1,996,153 4/1935 Heltzel 9451 X 1,997,216 4/1935 Heltzel 9451 X (Other references on following page) 13 14 UNITED STATES PATENTS 3,200,482 8/1965 Brown 9451 X e 1. w en V1937 Meyer 94 51 X 3,364,828 1/1968 Shope 9451 X 7/1944 Fischer 9451 X 5 NILE C. BYERS, 111., Primary Examiner. 9/1956 Allen 29235 CL 11/1961 Heinrich 29235 9439, 51; 29235 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3,416,415

December 17, 1968 Lee Worson It is certified that error appears in the above identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Column 1, line 30, "258,003" should read 158,003 Column 7, line 54, "bottom" should read bottoms Column 8, line 30, "monuts should read mounts Column 9, line 8, "These should read The Signed and sealed this 17th day of March 1970.

(SEAL) Attest:

WILLIAM E. SCHUYLER, JR.

Edward M. Fletcher, Jr.

Commissioner of Patents Attesting Officer 

